JOB SUMMARY:
We are looking for a highly motivated researcher to study the impact of organic mulches on insect and disease pressure in organic day-neutral strawberries in Wisconsin. Additionally, this position will support strawberry plot maintenance tasks and fruit harvest. The position will be field based with some laboratory work to identify pests and pathogens associated with June-bearing strawberries under different mulch treatments. The candidate will collect data in the field and process pest and pathogen samples in the lab, requiring an attention to details and flexibility in working both in the lab and in the field. The candidate also will provide bi-weekly written scouting reports for the WI Fruit Newsletter. The position will be at the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a co-supervised appointment in the Departments of Plant Pathology (Dr. Leslie Holland, https://fcpp.plantpath.wisc.edu/) and Entomology (Dr. Christelle Guedot, https://fruitcropentomology.russell.wisc.edu/). Strong work ethic and the ability to work outdoors for extended periods of time are a must.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Conducts research experiments with limited supervision. Provides technical support with some degree of independence for research projects and/or labs under moderate supervision.
35% Prepares lab and/or field test materials and samples according to established research requirements and specifications. Performs lab or field tests.
15% Inspects and maintains equipment, supplies, inventory, and facility spaces
35% Collects data and monitors test results according to established research requirements and specifications
15% May assist with literature reviews and/or report writing
INSTITUTIONAL STATEMENT ON DIVERSITY:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

For more information on diversity and inclusion on campus, please visit: Diversity and Inclusion

EDUCATION:
Required
Bachelor's Degree
B.S. in entomology, plant pathology, horticulture, or related fields

QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
- B.S. degree in entomology, plant pathology, biological, or environmental sciences.
- Dependability and flexibility in daily schedule as fieldwork may require early mornings/late days.
- Clean driving record and ability to drive automatic truck or van.
- Strong communication skills.
- Ability to do physical and repetitive work, including surveying disease symptoms and insects in the field, identification, etc...
- Excellent organization and time-management skills.
Preferred
- Previous research experience in entomology, plant pathology, biological or environmental sciences
- Preference will be given to candidates with field scouting experience
- Positive attitude